San Jacinto County protest draws crowd
Protesting what they call "40 years of corruption", a group of about
15 San Jacinto county concerned citizens carrying picket signs gathered in front
of the Coldspring courthouse yesterday for several hours of peaceful demonstration.
"All we're asking for is for some outside agency, like the FBI, to come
in and investigate our county government," said one picketer -- a woman
who introduced herself as a "taxapayer and grandmother of ten". At
least part of the protest was aimed at District Attorney Mark Price, including
a petition for his removal from office that was being circulated for signature.
An equally peaceful counter-demonstration had been organized by some county employees,
who stationed themselves across the courthouse steps from the picketers and were
offering cups of coffee to bystanders. "We just want people to know that
not everyone in our county government is corrupt," said one, "and that
we support our sheriff and his department."
Republican Chairman says "not again"
Richard Pegues, Republican County Chairman, has announced that he
will not seek a fourth term as the head of the Liberty County GOP.
Pegues is encouraging Lester
Ray Wisegerber, who challenged incumbent County Judge Lloyd Kirkham in a close
race in 2002, to run for the position.
Pegues, serving his third consecutive term in the office, testified in Austin
before a Congressional committee about the integrity of elections in Texas
as a result of that race.
"I have become a less vocal leader the last few years," said Pegues, "as
it almost seems like the Courthouse walls themselves are beginning to holler
for change."
Party Chairmen are chosen by voters during primary elections for a two-year
term.

Bargains abound at Junior High today
The front lawn of Cleveland's Junior High School will be covered
with tables and bargains of all shapes, sizes and prices today. Sponsored
by the school's
Student Council, the sale starts at 8 a.m. and runs until 2 p.m. Individuals
and merchants purchased space, tables and chairs for the opportunity to display
their wares, with the proceeds of those rentals going to student council
to help fund their various works and activities during the school
year.

Police Report
Police received 32 general calls on Thursday, and recorded four offenses,
including three for forgery. No arrests were made.

On Tap at the Texan
Showing tonight at 7 and 9 p.m., and through Thursday at 7 p.m. is "Runaway
Jury", rated PG-13, starring Gene Hackman, Dustin Hoffman and John Kusak.
Admission is $2 for children aged 3-11, and $4 for those aged 12 and older.